Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
One of the fixtures of Matchday 5 in the Copa Sudamericana group stage will take place on Thursday at the Defensores del Chaco stadium, where local side Sportivo Luqueño host Peruvian outfit Grau. I’m backing a bet on goals in this clash, seeing strong chances for success.
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Match preview
Sportivo Luqueño approach the fifth round of the Copa Sudamericana with disappointing results. The team have suffered three defeats and drawn once, losing any chance of advancing from the group. Now, the Auriazul are focused on finishing the tournament with dignity, hoping to capitalize on their home advantage in this encounter.
Despite their attacking struggles, the team continue to put up a fight in every match. At home, they often play cautiously, aiming to minimize defensive errors. In their most recent league outing, the club pulled off a hard-fought win against leaders Libertad, edging them 1-0. However, their league campaign has been below par overall, with Sportivo Luqueño sitting just ninth after 18 rounds.
Atlético Grau are also going through a rough patch and are still searching for their form. Over the last 10 matches, the team has failed to register a single win, recording seven draws and three losses. Nevertheless, the Albos still have a mathematical chance of reaching the playoffs, making every remaining match crucial.
Ángel Comizzo’s side are struggling to convert their chances, especially away from home. Their inability to score in their last three away games clearly highlights their attacking woes. In their latest match, Grau hosted Alianza Lima and managed a 1-1 draw, which allowed them to climb up to 14th in the Peruvian Apertura standings.
Probable lineups
- Sportivo Luqueño: Aguilar, Ferreira, Benítez A., Marcio, Maldonado, Benítez F., Rodríguez, Ríos, Auche, Cáceres, Santander
- Atlético Grau: Álvarez P., F. Rojas, Tapia R., Franco D., Bolívar J., Rostain J., Soto D., Guarderas R., Vilca R., Ruidíaz R., Bandiéra N
Match facts and head-to-head
- In the first round, Grau drew 2-2 at home against Sportivo Luqueño
- Only one of Sportivo Luqueño’s five matches has seen over 2.5 goals
- The over 2.5 goals bet has landed in three out of Grau’s five matches
Prediction
The bookmakers are backing the home side, offering odds of 2.15 for a Sportivo Luqueño win. However, I believe the more promising bet is on under 2.5 goals, with odds of 1.62.
